EDDIE O'SULLIVAN admits Ireland will be limping into Rome as they prepare for an enthralling Six Nations climax, locked in a three-way struggle for the title with France and England.

With the championship looking set to be decided by points difference, considerable ground needs to be made up by England in Cardiff, leaving the Stadio Flaminio and Stade de France as the crucial arenas with Les Bleus' points total just four higher than Ireland's.

Ireland's cause has not been helped by the loss of inspirational Munster lock Paul O'Connell to a fractured thumb sustained in the 19-18 victory over Scotland. Mick O'Driscoll is in pole position to replace his provincial team-mate in the starting line-up.

EDDIE O'SULLIVAN admits Ireland will be limping into Rome as they prepare for an enthralling Six Nations climax, locked in a three-way struggle for the title with France and England.

With the championship looking set to be decided by points difference, considerable ground needs to be made up by England in Cardiff, leaving the Stadio Flaminio and Stade de France as the crucial arenas with Les Bleus' points total just four higher than Ireland's.

Ireland's cause has not been helped by the loss of inspirational Munster lock Paul O'Connell to a fractured thumb sustained in the 19-18 victory over Scotland. Mick O'Driscoll is in pole position to replace his provincial team-mate in the starting line-up.